In their annual report, the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) reports that over 150 million Americans suffer from allergies. It means that in most large cities in America, you likely know someone with allergies.
But what many are unaware of is how serious an allergic reaction can become if left untreated. This article will discuss some of the signs that will indicate an allergic reaction is becoming hazardous to your health, and you need immediate allergy testing.
Signs of Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition in which you experience many different symptoms at once, such as swelling of the throat or mouth, trouble in breathing, vomiting and diarrhea, hives, dizziness, and intense itchiness.
These are the most severe symptoms of anaphylaxis, but several others may not be so apparent to someone who is not experienced with allergic reactions. For example, having a headache or feeling faint can indicate that you are becoming seriously ill from your reaction.
Should you notice any of these symptoms, or even if you do not, but know that someone has an allergic reaction, call 911 immediately.
Swelling of Mouth or Throat
Another sign that your allergic reaction is becoming serious is the swelling in either your throat or mouth. If you cannot breathe, speak, or swallow, you need to go to an emergency room right away.
This symptom’s significance is because it could lead to complete airway occlusion, which would lead to suffocation.
Difficulty Breathing
Difficulty breathing is another one of the most dangerous signs of an allergic reaction. The primary purpose of breathing is to get oxygen into your bloodstream. If you are not getting enough oxygen into your blood, your cells will begin to die.
When the cells in vital organs like the brain and heart start dying, it can lead to permanent damage or even death if left untreated.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is another symptom of many allergic reactions, potentially lethal if left untreated. The abdominal region of your body is where all of your vital organs are placed, so any damage to these can be life-threatening.
If you have this symptom, ask someone else to contact an allergy testing center while keeping the person with allergies calm and comfortable while waiting for medical attention.
Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing is another sign of a dangerous allergic reaction that may be difficult to detect. If you start feeling like food or drink is getting stuck in your throat, and you can’t swallow, speak with someone and try not to panic.
Getting the proper treatment immediately can help prevent this symptom from developing into something more serious.
Hives
Hives are an obvious sign of an allergic reaction. Often, they look like welts that have a white or clear center with a red outline. Even if hives are not visible, you may experience itching, which can be just as severe as the rest of the symptoms on this list.
If you or someone you know experiences hives, getting medical attention as soon as possible is essential.
Remember, if you feel that your allergic reaction is becoming severe, don’t wait to see if it gets better on its own or with over-the-counter medication.
If you have the slightest fear that your reaction may be life-threatening, contact emergency responders immediately and get yourself to a medical facility for treatment as soon as possible.